Has a person with a disability appeared before your court as a juror or litigant? If so, please indicate what, if any, challenges arose? And how were they handled?

I have had numerous cases with disabled parties and witnesses. The challenges, if any, depend on the nature of the disability and the ability of the court to make accommodations. Wheelchairs must access the lawyer's tables through an alternate door. The position of the plaintiff and defendant are sometimes reversed to accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Witnesses have needed a recess to have documents read to them. In other situations examinations have been conducted with sign language interpreters. I have permitted a party to have someone availble to assist them with their papers if they are learnig disabled and cannot present their case properly. I have positioned myself close to a party or witness so that I can be better heard or seen. The court must be flexible to adjust the court routine to permit the witness or party to fully participate in the proceeding.

Do you believe that a person who is deaf / hard of hearing or one who is blind/or has low vision can serve as a juror? Why or why not?

Yes, with accommodations made as required.

Are you willing to hire either on a job share or full time basis, a qualified law clerk/secretary with a disability?

I have never discriminated on the basis of a disability.

How will you work within the court structure to assure the accessibility of all facilities of the courts? For example, will you participate in the Committee for People with Disabilities, relevant training opportunities?

I have always been willing to modify the physical structure of the courtroom to accommodate a disability when required. If necessary I would arrange to change courtrooms if the physical structure could not be modified.

How would you act when the family of a person with physical or cognitive disabilities attempts to control their assets?